Part 2 of a heavily-researched novelised biography of James Sadler, the First English Aeronaut.
In a society haunted by disease, poverty and uncertainty, James is about to marry Mary Vane, putting aside his ambition to make the first man-made flight. Dr George Fordyce, eccentric Physician to King George III, brings news of an invention by the Montgolfier brothers that might prove the first flying machine. To Mary's consternation, James revives his dream. The notorious Grey Men watch as James is drawn down a path many pursued to their death. Will James risk a love he may never find again? Crucial decisions must be made as ambition and a possible place in history clashes with the security of love.
See also screenplay version by Dan Vichente, 'King of Ballooning' https: //www.amazon.co.uk/King-Ballooning-version-August-2017/dp/1975939514